Justin Pichetrungsi’s father started Anajak Thai Cuisine in Sherman Oaks in 1981. Pichetrungsi grew up in the restaurant and describes his dad as a hustler in his native Bangkok. Working as a tempura chef in a Japanese restaurant and in a Jack in the Box, Pichetrungsi’s father opened his restaurant after 12 years. Following his father’s stroke, Pichetrungsi gave up his career as a concept artist and art director at the Walt Disney Company.